The government has announced that the Maldives will impose a temporary entry ban in to the country for any person who has travelled from mainland China where the Coronavirus is widespread, with the exception of Maldivians.

The announcement was made during a press conference regarding coronavirus at the President's office.

Tourism Minister Ali Waheed revealed that starting February 03rd, travellers flying from mainland China will be banned from entering the Maldives. However, they noted that arrangements for any Maldivians will be done so by the government.

Minister Waheed stressed that this decision was made by the President for the safety of all Maldivians.

Seven Maldivians who were stuck in the epicenter of the coronavirus in Wuhan were also evacuated today, and relocated to New Delhi where they will be quarantined before being brought back to the Maldives. All arrangements of their quarantine are being handled by the Indian government.